#Japan #Tokyo #PayPay #Shinkansen #LINE EX

Introduction

In a significant move towards enhancing travel convenience, JR Central, JR West, and JR Kyushu, in partnership with LINE Yahoo and PayPay, will launch a new online reservation service called "LINEからEX" or "LINE EX" on October 4, 2025. This service will allow users to book tickets for the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen directly through the LINE messaging app, offering an easy and efficient way for millions of travelers to manage their trips.

The Need for the LINE EX Service

With the ongoing push for digital solutions in various sectors, train travel is no exception. The new LINE EX service aims to tap into the expansive user base of LINE, which boasts 99 million monthly active users as of June 2025. By integrating with PayPay, which holds a staggering 70 million registered users as of July 2025, JR East, West, and Kyushu are looking to simplify the reservation and payment process, making travel more accessible than ever.

This initiative aligns with the current trend toward cashless transactions and online services, particularly in a post-pandemic world where many travelers are seeking smart and convenient options. The simplified system is designed to appeal not only to tech-savvy travelers but also to casual users who may find traditional booking methods cumbersome.

Key Features of LINE EX

Easy Shinkansen Reservations

Users can quickly make reservations for the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen by adding the official LINE account for Shinkansen reservations. After agreeing to the service's terms and linking their LINE account, they can book a Shinkansen without needing to enter credit card details, providing an almost seamless experience.

Note

This feature is unavailable on the PC version of LINE, ensuring that the mobile app remains central to the process.

Payment via PayPay

Notably, payments will be exclusively processed through PayPay at the service's launch. Travelers will need to download the PayPay app and create an account to utilize this feature. This exclusivity aims to foster a strong affiliation between the booking service and digital financing solutions, encouraging users to adapt to this cashless way of paying for travel.

Ticketless Travel Options

For existing users of public transit IC cards or those wishing to travel ticketlessly, they can access their reservations through a QR code received after booking. This feature utilizes modern technology to ensure a swift boarding process without the need for paper tickets, significantly cutting down on time spent in stations.

Comparison with EX Services

While the LINE EX service shares similarities with existing EX services like "Express Reservation" and "Smart EX," it is crucial to note that it operates with a distinct structure. Users flow seamlessly from LINE to booking, which may encourage more people to consider Shinkansen travel.

Users seeking further details on the differences between services can visit the relevant websites: Express Reservation, Smart EX, and directly through LINE Shinkansen’s site at LINE Shinkansen.

Looking Ahead

As transportation evolves with technology, JR Central, JR West, and JR Kyushu are positioning themselves as leaders in the industry by upgrading their services to meet customer needs. As users increasingly shift towards digital solutions, this collaboration with LINE and PayPay stands to boost not only ticket sales but also enhance the overall travel experience, making Shinkansen journeys simpler and more convenient for everyone.

For those planning to travel on Japan's famous bullet trains, the LINE EX service represents an exciting step forward in modern transport management. Travelers can expect more updates leading up to the launch in 2025, with potential additions and features that will continue to redefine travel convenience in Japan.